Health, Population and Environment Education 9

i. Awareness and sense of responsibility towards nature
We should develop the habit of caring and conserving the natural environment. We should
not over exploit the natural resources. We should be aware and organized to conserve the
natural environment. We should work both individually and in organized way to keep
the natural environment clean and green.

ii. Knowledge of the natural structure and processes in the earth
We should have knowledge about the natural structure of the earth and different natural
processes that have been taking place in the earth. The knowledge of this helps the people
know what they should do and what they should not do to conserve the earth. People
plan and carry out their activities for development according to the natural structure
of nature, earth and different natural processes. People should know the best and most
effective ways of utilizing the resources and conserving them at the same time.


iii. Respect for nature
To respect for nature is to be positive to conserve it. To understand the bearing capacity of
nature and limit our activities is a way to respect for nature. To be careful and responsible
while utilizing the natural resources is to respect nature which is a step towards conserving
the earth. In our culture, we worship different elements of nature such as animals, birds,
insects in the form of different god and goddess. We also worship plants like tulsi and
peepal tree. We should understand the law of nature and follow it sincerely which is a
way to respect nature and conserve the natural environment.

iv. Environment friendly development

We should plan our economic and development activities keeping in mind the possible
adverse effects of them on nature. As far as possible, our economic and development
activities should not cause any harm to nature and natural environment. Trees should not
be cut down and forest resources should not be destroyed while constructing roads. In
industries the technologies should be used to emit less smoke and water resources should
not be polluted. Development is necessary and equally necessary it is to conserve the
nature and earth. Unplanned development is not development, it is destruction. So, our
every development work should be well planned and environment friendly.

v. Proper utilization of natural resources
Proper utilization of the natural resources is one of the ways of conserving nature and
caring of the earth. Careful and rational utilization of them according to their availability
and condition is necessary for conserving nature. Maximum utilization of perpetual
resources, proper utilization of renewable resources and conservation of non- renewable
resources is the proper way of utilizing of natural resources.


vi. Involvement in the environment conservation campaign
Conservation of natural environment by one or two individual is not sufficient. All the
people should be organized and involved in the environment conservation campaign.
If local people contribute at local level and different nations contribute at national and
GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 151

international level, it does not take long time to prevent different forms of environment
degradation and solve various environmental issues. People should join their hand and
work together to keep the environment clean and green.


Major programmes for caring the earth

Conservation of nature and caring the earth is the responsibility of all the people. Only the
effort of and individual is not sufficient for conserving and caring the earth. People of all
places and countries should be organized and carry out some programmes for conserving
nature and earth.
Some major programmes organized to care and conserve the earth are briefly described
below.

i. Worldwide conservation strategy

Only one or two countries cannot contribute to conserve and care the earth. All the
countries should have common and collective commitments to minimize environment
degradation and conservation of nature. For this, World Conservation Strategy has
been drafted at international level and it is being implemented in different countries.
Environmental issues have been made the global issues and various international
level programmes and conferences have been held in different places of the world for
emphasizing the environment conservation and sustainable development.

ii. National conservation policy
All the nations should formulate and implement the appropriate policy to conserve the
natural environment within the country as per the commitments they have expressed
at international level. The programmes for caring the earth can be more effective and
practical only when the people at local level and nations at national level participate
actively in the environment conservation programme.
Many countries have been formulating and implementing environment policy at local
level and national level. In our country also, various policies have been formulated and are
being implemented for the conservation of nature. In various decision making and policy
formulation process the environmental issues are being given due priorities. Biodiversity
conservation, Environment Education Programme, Environment Impact Monitoring
are some of the policies made and implemented in Nepal. Similarly, programmes for
forest conservation, conservation of birds, watersheds, soil are some of the environment
conservation programmes effective in Nepal. All such policies and programmes help of
conserve the nature and natural environment.

iii. Environmental plan
All countries in the world have launched their own development programmes for their
social, cultural and economic development. But all these development activities should
be well planned and properly decided for achieving sustainable development on one
hand and conserving the resources on the other hand. The integrated plan made for
sustainable development and conservation of natural environment is called environment
152 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

plan. Conservation of natural resources should be equally prioritized while prioritizing
the development activities in the country. All the countries have been implementing the
environment plan while planning for their development activities.

iv. Formulation of acts and law

Different countries have formulated various Acts and Law regarding the conservation of
natural environment. In Nepal also environment law is formulated and being implemented
effectively in Nepal. Formulation of such Acts and law and their effective implementation
help to conserve nature and solve environment related issues.


v. Institutional efforts
There are various organizations and institutions established at national and international
level for the conservation of nature and natural resources. The activities of such
organizations for conservation of nature should be extended up to local level. Such
organizations should train the local people, make them aware and develop skills in
them for proper utilization of natural resources. Besides, they should organize various
programmes from local level to international level for conserving the nature.

vi. Public awareness programme
One of the most important measures to be taken for environment conservation is to make
the people aware of proper utilization of the resources. It is the people and their unplanned
activities which become the main cause of environment degradation. So, it is necessary to
launch the public awareness programme regarding the environment conservation.

Activity: 5
Organize a drama to be shown in one of the school’s programmes including the
consequence of the over exploitation of natural resource.


The earth and human beings

The earth is the common home to all the human beings. They all have equal right to
utilize the resources available in nature. They utilize those resources for fulfilling their
needs and development. But the resources available should be utilized in careful and
rational way so that we can fulfill our needs on one hand and nature is conserved on the
other hand which leads to sustainable development. Human beings obtain everything
they require from the nature and carry out all their economic activities on the earth. Such
economic activities should be well planned and over exploitation of the resources should
be stopped. Unplanned and reckless human activities destroy the natural environment.
As a result, various type of natural calamities increase which cause the destruction of
human lives and properties. So, there is an interrelation between the earth and human
beings. Human beings live in the earth and the conservation of nature is in the hand of
human beings. One of our main duties is to conserve biodiversity, natural resource and
maintain balance in ecosystem. We should not cause harm to nature or other components
of nature while utilizing the natural resources for fulfilling our needs.

GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 153

We need to be aware of the following things regarding the conservation of natural
environment:
1. Our every activity causes the increase in the amount of greenhouse gases. So we
should try to minimize the activities that increase the amount of greenhouse gases.

2. We should utilize the resources rationally.
3. We all should be aware of the fact that we exist only when the earth exists.
4. Measures to improve the relation between the earth and human beings should be
implemented.
5. Natural resources should not be over exploited.
6. Development activities should be carried out in a planned way.

7. Use of modern tools and technologies should not cause harm to nature.
8. Limit the human activities according to the carrying capacity of the nature.
9. Concept of energy conservation for energy production should be developed.

10. Understand and follow the law of nature.
11. Environment friendly human activities should be adopted.
12. Emphasis on Forestry Education and Agriculture Education.



Activity: 6

Organize a speech competition in the class on the topic ‘Relation between Natural
resources and human activities.


Efforts that can be made at local level for caring the earth
Various efforts can be made at local level for the conservation of nature. Depending
upon the status of nature, climate and geographical condition, local people can carry out
different programmes to conserve nature. The following efforts can be made by the local
people of community for the conservation of nature:
1. Trees and plants should be protected for the conservation of water resources. New
trees should be planted in the places where there are no trees or plants.
2. The forest resources should be conserved. Old trees and dried plants can be collected
for wood or firewood but the new trees should not be harmed.
3. The use of insecticides and pesticides should be minimized and use of organic manure
should be increased. The people at local level should understand that quality of soil
can be increased and the creatures living in land can be protected by reducing the use
of insecticides and pesticides.
4. Unmanaged human settlement should be controlled.
5. Wildfire in the grasslands, forests, and any other open areas should be stopped.

154 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

6. Public places, heritages and resources should be conserved with the joint efforts of
all the people in the community.
7. Local people should keep the surrounding clean and green. Environment sanitation
programme should be launched frequently.

8. There should be proper management of solid and liquid wastes.
9. Terrace farming should be practised and plantation should be done on slopy areas to
control soil erosion.
10. Natural and cultural heritages of the community should be preserved and promoted.
Public participation should be increased in such activities.

11. As far as possible, non- renewable resources should be conserved and renewable
resources should be utilized properly.

12. We should raise public awareness regarding the conservation of nature at local level.
Summary

1. Natural resources are all the resources that are self- created and supplied from the
physical environment of the earth without any human action.
2. The resources found in nature are classified mainly into three types: Perpetual
resources, renewable resources and non- renewable resources.
3. Those natural resources which persist in nature and are never used up even after
their continuous utilization are known as perpetual resources.
4. Renewable resources are those resources which can be used repeatedly and replaced
naturally.
5. Those natural resources which, once are used up due to their continuous utilization,
cannot be replaced or replenished are known as non- renewable resources.
6. Natural resources are of great need and importance for all the living creatures
found on this earth.
7. There is an intricate relationship between the nature and human beings. Human
beings depend on the nature or resources available in nature for various things.
8. The invisible mixture of various gases present in the atmosphere that surround the
earth is called air.
9. Water is one of the very basic needs for sustaining life. We cannot live without
water.
10. The structure of the land of a place or country is different depending upon the
geological structure, nature and types of rocks and natural formation of land.
11. Nepal is rich in biodiversity due to its great variation in altitude, climate,
geographical structure and natural vegetation.
12. Minerals are substances that are formed naturally and are found in the earth.
Mineral is one of the main natural resources found in Nepal.
13. We live in nature and use natural resources to fulfill our various needs. Our happy,
healthy and prosperous life depends on the wise utilization of natural resources
and conservation of nature.
GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 155

14. Principle of absolute conservation states that the resources should be conserved by
completely stopping the use of them.
15. Principle of relative conservation states that the resources should be conserved
along with using them in planned and rational ways.
16. The World Conservation Strategy has asserted the policy based aspects of world
natural resource conservation and sustainable development. The strategy has
directed all concerned to carry out the development and conservation of natural
resources in an integrated way.

17. Public awareness should be increased and efforts should be organized to control
different types of pollution on natural environment and care for the earth.
18. Suitable temperature, favourable climate, availability of water resources, greenery
and other resources are reasons for why the earth is human inhabited planet.
19. The earth is the common habitat of all the living creatures. Each creature has its
own role and importance to maintain in ecosystem. So, each creature should be
protected.
20. Water found on the earth is one the reasons for the existence of different types of
living creatures and plants.
21. Biodiversity is an important natural heritage and different animals and plants have
been playing important roles to maintain balance in ecosystem. Therefore, it is
necessary to care and conserve the earth.
22. We should be aware and organized to conserve the natural environment. We should
work both individually and in organized way to keep the natural environment
clean and green.
23. We should plan our economic and development activities keeping in mind the
possible adverse effects of them on nature.
24. Maximum utilization of perpetual resources, proper utilization of renewable
resources and conservation of non- renewable resources is the proper way of
utilizing of natural resources.
25. Many countries have been formulating and implementing environment policy at
local level and national level.
26. Biodiversity conservation, Environment Education Programme, Environment
Impact Monitoring are some of the policies made and implemented in Nepal.

27. The integrated plan made for sustainable development and conservation of natural
environment is called environment plan.
28. One of our main duties is to conserve biodiversity, natural resource and maintain
balance in ecosystem.
29. Trees and plants should be protected for the conservation of water resources. New
trees should be planted in the places where there are no trees or plants.




156 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

Exercise


A. Write very short answer to the following questions.
1. What are natural resources?
2. What are perpetual natural resources?
3. Mention any two examples of perpetual natural resources.
4. Why is fossil fuel called non-renewable natural resources?
5. How can we minimize use of non-renewable natural resource?
6. Write the composition of air.
7. What is winnowing?
8. How much water is present in our body?
9. How much water present in Earth is fresh water?
10. Which is the richest country in water resources in the world?
11. Write the full form of following organizations:
a. ICIMOD b. UNEP c. WWF d. IUCN e. ADB
12. How much underground water is present in Nepal?
13. Up to which depth underground water is present in Nepal?
14. What is the soil of hilly region made up of?
15. How much forest is present in Nepal?
16. What is tree line?
17. How many species of mammals and birds are present in Nepal?
18. Mention two places where the following minerals are found in Nepal.
a. Iron b. Gold c. Coal d. Zinc
19. What is the importance of copper and limestone?
20. Which conservation method is useful for conservation of rare animals and rare
plants?
21. What is the main motto of relative conservation?
22. Why is world conservation strategy drafted?
23. How does recycling make soil fertile?
24. What is atmosphere?
25. How is earth protected from ultra-violet rays of sun?
26. How are seasons changed in the earth?


B. Write short answer to the following questions.
1. What are renewable natural resources? Explain briefly.
2. How do natural resources help in tourism development and research works?

3. “Natural resources are important for our proper growth, development and
survival.” Justify this statement.

GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 157

4. What is air? Why is air called as the mixture of gases?
5. Explain briefly about the importance of air.
6. What is surface water? Explain briefly about the sources of water?

7. How is soil formed? Explain briefly about the land structure of geographical
regions of Nepal.

8. Why do we need forest?
9. What is wildlife? Why do we need to conserve it?
10. Differentiate between:

a. Renewable and non-renewable natural resources
b. Surface water and underground water
c. Tropical and sub-tropical forest
d. Temperate and alpine forest

e. Absolute and relative conservation
11. Write short notes on:
a. Mineral resources of Nepal

b. Principles of natural resources conservation
c. Caring of the earth
d. Earth and human beings
e. World Conservation Strategy

12. “The earth is a living planet.” Justify this statement.
13. What are the efforts made at local level for caring the earth?
14. Why do we need to prioritize perpetual natural resources?

15. Why are non-renewable natural resources vulnerable?

c. Write long answer to the following questions.

1. What are natural resources? Why do we need them?
2. What is water? Why is it very important in our life?
3. How are forests classified in Nepal? Explain briefly about its types.
4. What are the features of Earth that have made Earth as a living planet? Explain
briefly.
5. How can we care our Earth? Explain briefly.
6. What are the major programmes for caring the Earth?




158 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

UNIT
7 Environmental Health










Estimated Teaching Periods: 18
Learning Objectives
Learning Outcomes
After completing the study of this unit, students will be able to:
i. explain the concept of environmental health.
ii. describe the importance of environmental health.
iii. introduce environmental pollution and describe the sources and causes of environmental
pollution.
iv. explain the types of pollution, their causes and preventive measures.
v. explain the ways of solid wastes management.

Course Outline

7.1 Concept of Environmental Health
7.2 Environmental Pollution and Its Management
7.3 Types of Pollution
7.4 Management of Solid Wastes
7.5 Drainage and Excreta Disposal



Glossary

pollution : the action or process of making land, water, air, etc. dirty and not safe or
suitable to use
sewage : waste material (such as human urine and faeces) that is carried away from
human and other buildings in a system of pipes
garbage : things that are no longer useful or wanted and that have been thrown out
turbidity : of a liquid: not clean or clear: cloudy or muddy
desertification : the process by which an area becomes a desert
tectonic : of or relating to changes in the structure of the earth’s surface
hazard : a source of danger
famic : a situation in which many people do not have enough food to eat



GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 159

7.1 Concept of Environmental Health

The word ‘environment’ has been derived from two
French words: ‘environ’ and ‘ment’. The meaning of
‘environ’ in French is wind circuit and ‘ment’ is action
or result. The literal meaning of environment is the
whole area covered with air.
Environment is everything surrounding us. It includes
physical, biological and socio- cultural components.
Physical components include abiotic factors and Fig: 1
biological components include biotic factors, Socio- Environment
cultural components include social traditions, social norms and values, cultural activities,
functions, ceremonies, religious practices, performances, etc. There is presence of of
air, water, soil, minerals, hills, mountains, rivers, lakes, ponds, streams, cultivable land,
watersheds, wetlands, forests, plants, trees, animals, birds, insects, reptiles, fishes,
amphibians and micro- organisms in our surroundings. Air water, soil, minerals, etc. are
the abiotic factors. Similarly, plants, animals, birds, insects, micro-organisms, etc. are the
biotic factors.
All the physical, biological and socio-cultural components in environment are inter-
related among one other. Human beings are totally dependent on environment for their
proper growth, development and survival. There is no existence of our life without air,
water, soil, minerals, plants, animals, birds, etc. in the environment. There is very close
relationship between our health and the factors in environment. The purity of all those
factors maintains our health and improves our health. Which is called environmental
health.
According to WHO, Environment health is those aspects of human health and disease
that are determined by factors in the environment.
Due to rapid population growth, there is serious impact on environment and environmental
health. There has been massive increase of deforestation, unmanaged urbanization and
industrialization with increase of population. Due to unmanaged urbanization, there is
problem of solid waste management. The wastes are thrown in water sources as well
as here and there in the surroundings. The drainage and sewage from settlement areas
are mixed directly into water resources. As a result, there is increase of water and land
pollution. Due to unmanaged industrialization, intense smoke and dust produced from
industries cause air pollution. The solid and liquid wastes produced from industries are
randomly thrown here and there and mixed into water resources which create land and
water pollution. People randomly and excessively utilize chemical fertilizers, insecticides
and pesticides on land in order to grow more food. This accelerates land pollution.
Environmental health is seriously affected by pollution in air, water and land. Increase
of pollution causes spreading of several diseases to people. Similarly, the environmental
factors like heat, cold, rain, change of seasons, etc. also have direct impact on human
health.

160 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

Fig: 2
Deforestation Urbanization

There should be balance among all the environmental factors. Balance among all of them
ensures environmental health. There should be plantation of trees, control of pollution
of air, water, land and sound, reduction of excessive and random utilization of chemical
fertilizers in land. People must consume nutritious food, maintain cleanliness and
personal hygiene, manage wastes, sewage, dust, air, sound, etc. Environmental health
supports in all of them.


Importance of environmental health
The importance of environmental health is given below:
a. It shows the relationship between environment and human health.

b. It motivates for environmental sanitation and cleanliness.
c. It encourages for proper management of wastes in school, home and surroundings.
d. It helps in reduction of environmental pollution.

e. It supports in keeping the environment safe.
f. It generates awareness for afforestation programmes.
g. It teaches people about control and management of environmental pollution.
h. It helps people to know about diseases and ways to prevent them.

Measures to maintain environmental health in the family and school

a. To do afforestation around houses and schools
b. To establish garden and maintain greeneries around schools and houses

c. To maintain cleanliness around houses and schools
d. To manage toilets and maintain sanitation in houses and schools
e. To manage wastes from houses and schools properly

f. Not to establish any factories and industries near schools and houses
g. Not to allow cattle and other animals in school
h. Not to organize any fair or celebrations in and around schools.


GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 161

7.2 Environmental Pollution and Its Management

There has been rapid increase of population in world. It has increased sound pollution.
Along with increased population, unmanaged urbanization and industrialization are also
increased. There has been random extension of settlement areas and increase of construction
works. As a result, there is excessive mining which has caused air, water and land pollution.
Even there is increase of problem of solid waste management which has caused water and
land pollution. Random industrialization has increased excessive production of smoke and
increase of air, water land and sound pollution. There is increase of global warming, ozone
layer depletion due to air pollution. Apart from them, there is increase of human activities
like rocket launching, use of explosives, wars, etc. which create air, water, land and sound
pollution. In addition to them, the natural disasters and calamities like earthquake, volcanic
erruption, storm, flood, landslide, etc. destroy the physical condition of environment and
increase air, water and land pollution. Increase of pollution has serious impact on air, water,
land as well as on plants, animals, birds, insects including human beings. Natural disaster
and environmental pollution affect the life style, reproduction and survival of living beings.
Hence, it is very important to manage pollution. Control and management of pollution
ultimately helps in protection of the earth.













Fig: 3
Air Pollution Water Pollution Sound Pollution

Introduction to environmental pollution

The components of environment are closely related with each other. The balance in all of
them supports to make balance in environment and maintains environmental health. When
there is no balance among the physical and biological components of the environment,
negative impacts are seen on them. Air, water, soil, minerals, plants, animals, birds, insects
etc. do not remain in the natural state. The introduction of contaminants into the natural
environment that cause adverse change is called environment pollution.
Pollution can be defined as undesirable change in physical, chemical and biological
characteristics of air, water and land due to addition of unwanted substances in them that
adversely affects the health and the survival of all the living beings.

When there is addition of unwanted substances in air, water, land, there is change in
physical characteristics like size, structure, density, visibility, turbidity, colour, taste,
odour, transparency, etc. There is change in chemical characteristics like acidity, basicity
etc. and biological characteristics of living organisms like plants, animals, birds, insects,
micro-organisms, etc. are affected.
162 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

Pollution is caused by different types of pollutants. Pollutants are those substances which
cause pollution. There are solid, liquid and gaseous pollutants. Solid pollutants include
dust, ash, garbage, metallic and non-metallic substances. Liquid pollutants include
insecticides, pesticides, benzene, phenol, aldehydes, acid, base, etc. Gaseous pollutants
include smoke containing harmful gases like CO , CO, CH , NO, NO , SO , CFC (Chloro
2
2
4
2
fluoro carbon) etc.
Sources and causes of environmental pollution
Environmental pollution causes negative impacts in environment. There is qualitative
and quantitative change in various resources in environment by different types of
pollution. Actually pollution is caused by human activities and changes take place in
natural environment. Increase in global warming, volcanic eruption, earthquake, flood,
landslide, soil erosion, etc. naturally cause pollution. Similarly, deforestation, unmanaged
urbanization, industrialization, excavation, conduction of development works, war,
explosion, etc. are the human activities that increase pollution. The major sources of
pollution are described bellow:


A. Natural sources

a. Change in earth’s temperature
There is increase of unmanaged industrialization and
establishment of more industries. Industries produce
excessive amount of smoke containing harmful
gases like CO , CO, CH , NO, NO , CFC, etc. which
2
4
2
increase air pollution. As a result, there is increase
of greenhouse effect and global warming. There is
continuous increase of average temperature of the
earth. Due to global warming, there is melting of
snow, increase of sea level, change in rainfall pattern, Fig: 4
change in seasons, threat of avalanches, glacial lake Smoke from industries
outburst flood (GLOF), increase of desertification, famine, etc.

b. Volcanoes
Due to excessive temperature inside the earth, the
rocks are found in molten state. The molten state
of rocks inside the earth’s crust is called magma.
Sometimes magma is discharged outside from weak
land structure. This is called as volcanic eruption.
During volcanic eruption, massive amount of ash and
dust particles as well as lava are discharged outside.
Ash and dust particles cover large distance, create
air pollution, acid rainfall, spreading of diseases, Fig: 5
etc. The lava destroys surrounding plants, animals, Volcanic eruption
harms human beings and deposits large amount of rocks. There is destruction of physical
features of land, water and land as well as water ecosystem.
GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 163

c. Earthquake
When there is collision between tectonic plates of the
earth, there is release of energy that creates shaking of
the land. It is called earthquake. Due to shaking of land,
the physical structures like roads, bridges, buildings,
industries, monuments, etc. are destroyed. There is
even occurrence of landslide, flood, avalanche, etc.
Destruction of buildings, industries and monuments
creates dust, thereby leading towards air pollution.
It kills animals and humans. Moreover, occurrence Fig: 6
of flood and landslide destroys land features, plants, Earthquake
animals, pollution of land and water, spreading of diseases etc.

d. Flood and landslide
Due to excessive
deforestation and heavy
rainfall, there is occurrence
of flood and landslide. Flood
erodes soil, cultivable land
and destroys plants, human
settlement areas. Flood
even sweeps aways human Fig: 7
beings as well as animals.
Landslide damages forest, Flood Landslide
land structure, human settlement, cultivable land, etc. Moreover, flood and landslide
also cause land and water pollution.


e. Depletion of ozone layer
There is a layer of ozone gas covering the atmosphere
which shields the earth from entrance of harmful ultra
violet (UV) radiation in the earth. Due to unmanaged
industrialization, there is discharge of excessive
amount of smoke containing greenhouse gases like
CO , CO, CH , NO, NO , CFCs in the atmosphere. The
2
4
2
accumulation of large amount of greenhouse gases
depletes the ozone layer. Depletion of ozone layer
causes entrance of harmful UV radiation in the earth. Fig: 8
As a result, there is serious impact on plants, animals Ozone layer depletion
and entire environment. UV rays cause cancer, skin problems and respiratory problems
in animals including human beings. Similarly, there is increase of water pollution, land
pollution, acid rainfall, desertification, etc.





164 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

Activity: 1

Discuss with your parents regarding the status of environment now and then. List out
the changes they have observed. Prepare a report and present it in the class.

B. Human sources
Human beings are responsible for destruction of environment. Due to various human
activities, there is increase of pollution in environment as well as several negative impacts
are seen on human beings themselves. Some of the major human activities which affect
environment are described below.

a. Deforestation
With the increase of population, there is increase of
deforestation so as to extend the settlement areas,
cultivable land and other economic activities. As a
result, there is scarcity of fresh air, depletion of wildlife,
drying up of under ground water. Moreover, there
is depletion of ozone layer and entrance of harmful
ultra-violet radiation on the earth. As a result, there is
increase of soil, air, water pollution and spreading of Fig: 9
various diseases on animals and human beings. Deforestation



d. Construction works
With unmanaged urbanization, there is increase
of random construction works. The hydropower
generation, construction of apartments, housing and
colonies, roads, commercial buildings, industries,
hospitals, colleges, etc. are increased. During the
construction works, forest, water, soil and minerals
are excessively explored and utilized. As a result, air,
water, land and sound pollution are increased. Fig: 10
Construction of roads


c. Excavation
Various types of metallic and non-metallic minerals
are present inside the earth’s crust. Those minerals
are widely utilized during construction works. With
the increase of construction works, different minerals
are excavated a lot. During mining, crude mineral
ores are explored and are exposed to air and land.
Similarly, explosives are used to blast the rocks.
Ultimately, there is increase of air, water, land and Fig: 11
sound pollution in the environment. Excavation
GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 165

d. Industrialization
Many industries and factories are established with the
increase of industrialization. Industries and factories
produce excessive amount of dust, ash and smoke
containing harmful gases. They randomly discharge
solid wastes here and there in the surroundings.
Above all, the liquid discharges from industries and
factories are directly mixed into water resources.
Ultimately, there is increase of air, water and land
pollution as well as serious impact on terrestrial and Fig: 12
aquatic ecosystems. Industrialization


e. Wars and explosions
The tussle between different
nations increases conflicts
and sometimes wars. During
wars, many deadly weapons,
guns, rifles, bombs, etc. are
used. They cause production
of smoke, dust and harmful
gases as well as intense
sound. Even sometimes, Fig: 13
some nations keep on testing Civil war Bomb explosion
missiles, nuclear and atomic
weapons. They increase intense sound, smoke, harmful radiation, etc. These all seriously
affect human life and other living beings in environment.


f. Unmanaged urbanization
Unmanaged urbanization has caused unplanned
extension of settlement areas. There is random increase
of deforestation, scarcity of drinking water, problem
of solid waste management, drainage, electricity,
proper roads, etc. In the one hand, those problems
have seriously affected human life and in the other
hand, various types of pollution are increased in the
environment. Fig: 14
Unmanaged urbanization


Activity: 2
Discuss in groups about consequences of human activities in environment and their
results in human life. Later on present in your class.






166 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

7.3 Types of Pollution

There are various types of pollution. In this unit, we will discuss about following four
types of pollution:

A. Air pollution B. Water pollution
C. Land/Soil pollution D. Sound pollution


A. Air pollution
Air pollution can be defined as undesirable change
in physical, chemical and biological characteristics
of air due to addition of unwanted substances in
it. According to WHO, “Air pollution is limited to
situation in which the outer ambient atmosphere
contains materials in concentrations, which are
harmful to human beings and their environment.”
When there is addition of dust particles, ash and Fig: 15
smoke in air, air pollution is increased. The addition of
smoke produced from industries, factories, vehicles, Air pollution
forest fire, burning of tyres, etc. increase air pollution. It seriously affects environment
and other living beings by spreading many diseases, causing acid rainfall, global warming
and climate change.

Causes of air pollution
Air pollution is caused by the following ways:
a. Forest fire leads towards air pollution.
b. Burning of wood and coal for preparing food,
heating water, etc. causes air pollution.
c. The smoke and dust produced from industries
and factories pollute air.
d. The smoke produced from burning of petroleum Fig: 16
products in vehicles causes air pollution.
e. The smoke and dust produced during volcanic eruption increase air pollution.
f. Burning of tyres and other explosives cause air pollution.

Effects of air pollution
Air pollution adversely affects human beings, other living beings and environment.
According to WHO, millions of people die suffering from various air-borne diseases
every year in the world. Some of the effects of air pollution are listed below:
a. Air pollution causes lung cancer.
b. Smoke and dust produced from burning fuel, industries, etc. cause several respiratory
problems like asthma, bronchitis, ARTI (Acute Respiratory Tract Infection), etc.
GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 167

c. It increases eye problems and allergies.
d. The smoke produced during combustion or burning of petroleum products in the
vehicles contain carbon monoxide which affects body systems, instant death, etc.
e. It may cause several other disfunctions like kidney failure, liver problems, abortion
in females, etc.
f. Dust and nitrous oxide in air cause cough, common cold and lung diseases.
g. Sulphur dioxide in air causes headache, chest pain, vomiting and burning sensation
in nose, neck and eyes.
h. Air pollution reduces visibility.
i. It causes acid rainfall which destroys the cultural heritages, important monuments,
inscriptions, etc.
j. Air pollution increases greenhouse effect and global warming which have adverse
effects on living beings.

Control measures of air pollution
We can control air pollution by the following ways:

a. The industries should be established far away from the settlement areas.
b. The height of chimneys in industries should be made higher, i.e. more than 40 metres.
c. The industries should adopt modern technologies to reduce production of smoke
and dust particles.
d. The vehicles should be repaired time and again and modern technologies should be
used to reduce production of smoke.
e. Industries should install cyclone bag filter and electrostatic procipadator to reduce
air pollution.
f. Plantation should be done on both sides of roads.
g. There should not be random discharge of wastes in the surroundings in order to
control air pollution.
h. Various rules and regulations should be made to control air pollution.
i. Industries should adopt electricity and other alternative sources of energy rather
than non-renewable resources like fossil fuel, coal, petroleum products, etc.
j. People should be made aware about causes and effects of air pollution.

Activity: 3
Visit your locality or nearby industries. Observe the impacts caused by them to people
and environment. List them out and present them in class.





168 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

B. Water Pollution
Water pollution is undesirable change in the physical,
chemical and biological characteristics of water due
to addition of unwanted substances in water that
adversely affects the survival of living beings in water.

When there is addition of sewage, drainage and
wastes from different sources in water, there is
increase of water pollution. As a result, there is change
in physical and chemical condition of water. Even Fig: 17
the plants, animals, and insects that live in water are
affected. There is serious impact on water ecosystem Water Pollution
as well as spreading of various types of water borne diseases to people.

Causes of water pollution
There are various causes of water pollution. Some of them are as follows:
a. Random discharge of wastes from settlement areas and markets in water causes water
pollution.
b. Joining of sewage and drainage from settlement areas into water resources increases
water pollution.
c. Joining of industrial discharge directly into water resource leads towards water
pollution.
d. Various activities like washing clothes, cleaning utensils, bathing, etc. in water
resources causes water pollution.
e. Random and excessive use of chemical fertilizers on land causes water pollution.
f. Occurrence of natural calamities like flood, landslide, soil erosion leads towards
water pollution.
g. Deposition of dust, dead bodies, etc. in the water resources increases water pollution.
h. If the dumping site is near to the water resources, it increases water pollution.

Effects of water pollution
Water pollution affects land and water ecosystems. The living beings including human
beings are adversely affected by water pollution. Some of the effects of water pollution
are as follows:
a. Water pollution causes spreading of different diseases like diarrohea, dysentery,
cholera, typhoid, jaundice, hepatitis, etc.
b. Industrial discharge containing harmful substances destroy water ecosystem.
c. It contaminates drinking water.
d. If people bathe in polluted water, they will suffer from various skin diseases and
allergies.
e. It spreads bad smelling in the surroundings.
f. It adversely affects land animals and birds, etc.

GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 169

g. Irrigating the agricultural land with polluted water destroys the crops.
h. If the vegetables and fruits are washed with polluted water, the consumers may
suffer from various water-borne diseases.

Control measures of water pollution
The following measures can be adopted for the control of water pollution.
a. Random disposal of wastes from market and settlement areas in the water resources
should be banned.
b. The sewage and drainage from settlement areas should be treated first before
discharging into water resources.
c. The industrial discharges should be treated first before joining into water resources.
d. Random and excessive use of chemical fertilizers on land should be stopped.

e. The dumping site should be made far away from the water resources.












Fig: 18
Treatment of sewage and drainage Treatment of hospital wastes
f. Plantation should be done to control landslide and flood.
g. The solid and liquid wastes produced from the hospitals, workshops, laboratories,
etc. should be managed properly.
h. Strict rules and regulations should be made to control water pollution from industries
and settlement areas.
i. People should be made aware regarding causes and effects of water pollution.


C. Land Pollution
The undesirable change in physical, chemical and
biological characteristics of land due to addition
of unwanted substances that adversely affects the
survival of living beings on land is called as land
pollution.
Random deposition of wastes from settlement areas,
industries, market, hospitals as well as random and
excessive use of chemical fertilizers on land causes Fig: 19
land pollution. As a result, the entire terrestrial Land pollution
170 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

ecosystem is adversely affected. Plants, animals, birds, insects, etc. have adverse impacts
for their reproduction, life cycle, food chain and survival.

Causes of land pollution
There are various causes of land pollution. Some of them are as follows:
a. Random disposal of wastes from settlement
areas and markets on land causes land
pollution.

b. Random disposal of wastes from industries and
factories on land leads towards land pollution.

c. Deposition of non-biodegradable wastes like
glasses, metal, plastics, etc. on land leads
towards land pollution. Fig: 20
d. Random use of chemical fertilizers on land Liquid wastes from industries
increases land pollution.
e. Random discharge of vehicles’ parts, laboratory wastes, hospital wastes, etc. on land
causes land pollution.
f. Excessive mining of mineral resources leads towards land pollution.
g. Discharge of liquid wastes from the industries and factories on land increases land
pollution.

Effects of land pollution
Land pollution seriously affects terrestrial ecosystem. Human beings including other
living beings face several problems due to land pollution. There are many health hazards
on human beings and other living beings. Some of the effects of land pollution are as
follows:
a. Random disposal of wastes and garbages attracts germs and insects which spreads
different diseases like diarrhoea, dysentery, typhoid, malaria, encephalitis, dengue,
etc.

b. It spreads bad smell in the surroundings and reduces the beauty of environment.
c. It makes the surrounding unhealthy.
d. Excessive use of chemical fertilizers on land decreases the fertility of soil and hence
reduces food production.
e. Excessive use of chemical fertilizers can cause several diseases to human beings,
animals and birds.
f. It affects food chain, life cycle and reproduction process of living beings on land.
h. It causes air pollution and water pollution.




GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 171

Control measures of land pollution
The following measures can be adopted to control land pollution:
a. Random disposal of wastes and garbage from settlement areas and markets on land
should be stopped.
b. There should be availability of containers in various places for the collection of wastes.
c. The biodegradable wastes like plants, vegetables, fruits peels, cereals, etc. should
be converted into compost whereas non-biodegradable wastes like metals, plastics,
glasses, rubber, etc. should be reused and recycled.
d. The ground should be leveled after mining.
e. People should be encouraged for scientific farming and they need to use appropriate
amount of chemical fertilizers on land.
f. The discharges from industries, workshops, laboratories, etc. should be treated first
before discharging on land.
g. There should be proper management of landfill sites and they should be made far
away from settlement areas.
h. Strict rules and regulations should be made to control land pollution.
i. People should be made aware regarding causes and effects of land pollution.


D. Sound Pollution
The unwanted sound produced in large intensity
that adversely affects the physical and mental
condition of people is called sound pollution.
A lot of sound is produced from different sources
like vehicles, music concerts, explosions, air
crafts, media/radio, television, etc. Sound is
measured in decibel (db). In different situations
different intensity of sound is produced. During
normal conversation, 60db sound is produced. In Fig: 21
whispering 20/30 db of sound is produced. Bikes Sound pollution
produce 90 db sound, rocket launching produces 200 db of sound, explosions produce
200 db and more sound. For normal health 55 db sound is good at day time and 45 db
at night time. But human ear can tolerate sound upto 80db. Sound beyond 80db causes
problems and increases sound pollution.

Causes of sound pollution
There are various causes of sound pollution. Some of them are as follows:
a. Increase of pollution in cities and towns causes sound pollution in such areas.

b. Running of big machineries in industries and factories increases sound pollution.
c. Running of vehicles causes sound pollution.
172 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

d. Tunning on to the electrical equipment like radio, television, loudspeaker, etc. in large
volume increases sound pollution.
e. Organization of concerts and festivals causes sound pollution in city areas.
f. Howling and shouting during sport activities in the stadium increase sound pollution.
g. Landing and taking off of aeroplane increase sound pollution.

h. Rocket launching leads towards sound pollution.
i. Explosions, use of fire crackers, nuclear tests, etc. cause sound pollution.
j. Enchanting ‘mantras’ and playing musical instruments during religious functions
also increase sound pollution.

Effects of sound pollution
The high intensity of sound produced affects ear drum and causes several physical and
mental problems. Some of the effects of sound pollution are as follows:
a. It causes hearing problem.
b. It disturbs our concentration.

c. It interferes our conversation.
d. It increases mental tension and stress.
e. It makes people angry and irritated.

f. It makes people physically tired and weak.
g. It causes sleeplessness (insomnia).
h. It increases blood pressure, heart beat, kidney problem, liver problem, etc.


Control measures of sound pollution
Sound pollution cannot be totally controlled; it can simply be reduced. Some of the control
measures of sound pollution are as follows:

a. Industries should be established far away from the settlement areas.
b. People should put cotton or ear plug or helmet while working in industries.
c. Tunning on to musical instruments or electrical equipments should be done in low
volume.
d. The walls of industries and cinema halls should be made with sound proof materials.
e. Various technologies should be applied to reduce sound produced from industries
and vehicles.
f. Airports should be made far away from settlement areas.
g. The festivals and concerts should be organized in proper way.




GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 173

h. The public places should be made horn free zones.
i. There should be plantation on both sides of road.
j. Random explosion of fire crackers should be banned.

k. The vehicles should be repaired time and again.
l. People should be made aware about causes and effects of sound pollution.
m. Strict rules and regulations should be formulated and implemented to control sound
pollution.

Activity: 4
Visit your locality and observe the types of pollution in the surrounding. Make a list of
effects and ways to control them by concerned authority. Discuss them in class.



7.4 Management of Solid Wastes

People utilize various materials in day to day life. Food, clothes, metals, glass, rubber,
etc. are widely used. After their use, some are thrown as wastes. They are thrown here
and there in the surroundings. A large amount of wastes are produced from industries,
markets, hospitals, workshops, offices, schools, etc. Random discharge of wastes
produced from different sources litters the surrounding, pollutes environment, spreads
many diseases, affects land and water ecosystem, makes the area unsuitable for living. So,
it is most essential to manage solid wastes.
Management of solid wastes means adoption of various activities that include collection,
transfer, treatment, burial, burning and disposal of solid wastes in a systematic way.


Introduction to solid wastes
People need various materials in day to day
life. Fruits and vegetables are packed in paper
or plastics. Fruits skin and unwanted vegetable
parts are removed. Bones and other parts may be
discarded before cooking meat. Clothes and shoes
are thrown when torn. Glass pieces and metals are
dumped when broken and damaged. Some portion
of remaining of food stuff are dumped when not Fig: 22
consumed. The syringes and medicine bottles are
discarded after their use. Solid wastes

The solid materials that are left after consumption and utilization are called solid wastes.
For example, plastics, paper, metals, glasses, rubber, food stuff, fruit skin, animal parts,
vegetables parts, etc.




174 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

Types of solid wastes
Solid wastes are classified under the following types:
Solid Wastes


Biodegradable wastes Non-biodegradable wastes Landfill wastes

Food stuff Metallic objects Ceramics
Vegetable parts Glass pieces Film roll

Fruits skin Rubber Mineral water bottles

Rotten fruits Plastic Laminated paper

Animal parts Broken utensils Wrapping paper
a. Biodegradable wastes
Those solid wastes which can be converted into
compost or manure are called biodegradable
wastes. These wastes decompose, decay and
produce bad smelling in the surrounding. For
example, food stuff, vegetable parts, plant residues,
meat, skin, bones, fruits, fruit skin, animal dung,
egg shells, dead animals, grass, straw, etc.
Generally, (70 – 80)% of the total wastes produced Fig: 23
are biodegradable wastes. Biodegradable wastes

b. Non-biodegradable wastes
Those solid wastes which cannot be converted into
compost or manure are called non-biodegradable
wastes. These wastes do not decay and decompose
even after long period of time. For example,
plastics, metal, glass, rubber, bricks, stone,
marble, etc. Generally, (20-30)% of the total wastes
produced are non-biodegradable wastes. Though Fig: 24
these wastes cannot be decomposed, they can be Non-biodegradable wastes
reused and recycled.

C. Landfill wastes/Disposable wastes
Those solid wastes which can neither be converted
into compost nor be reused or recycled are called
landfill wastes/disposable wastes. These wastes
need to be dumped properly in landfill sites or
dumping sites. For example, Laminated paper, film
roll, gift wrappers, mineral water bottles, etc. About
5% of total wastes produced are landfill wastes/ Fig: 25
disposable wastes. Landfill wastes
GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 175

Sources of solid wastes
There is generation of solid wastes from different sources. Some of them are as follows:


a. Home or Settlement area
Various solid wastes are produced from our home.
Generally, food stuff, dust, ashes, papers, plastics,
plant residue, vegetable parts, broken glass, metals,
cloth pieces, old shoes, batteries, utensils, electronic
devices, furnitures, wood pieces, fruits, etc. are
produced from our home. Fig: 26

b. Market areas
Several materials are sold and bought in the market.
There are various shops like vegetable shops, shoes
shop, clothes shops, etc. in the market. From the
market areas several solid wastes like plastics,
papers, wrappers, vegetable residue, fruits skin,
etc. are produced.
Fig: 27

c. Industries
Different types of industries are established to
produce various things. Different industries
utilize different types of raw materials. Generally,
industries produce papers, plastics, wrappers,
bottles, clothes, metallic substances, machine parts,
damaged materials, etc. So, industries are also the
sources of solid wastes. Fig: 28
d. Hospitals

Hospitals are the major sources of solid wastes.
A wide range of solid wastes are produced from
hospitals, nursing homes, etc. Several wastes like
cotton, gauze, pads, syringe, medicine bottles,
plastic bottles, medicine wrappers, blood stained
clothes, masks, gloves, human organs, tissues, etc.
are generated from the hospitals. Fig: 29


e. Institutions and offices
Various institutions like schools, colleges, banks,
government offices, training centres, etc. also
produce large quantity of solid wastes. Many
wastes like paper, newspaper, books, staplers,
glasses, wrappers, plastics, vegetable parts, food
stuff, etc. are thrown as solid wastes from there. Fig: 30
176 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

f. Roads
Many wastes are thrown here and there in the
roads. Vehicles discharge dust on roads. The
construction materials are also dumped on roads.
The wastes like broken glasses, wrappers, plastics
bottles, papers, vehicles parts, ropes, sand, bricks,
stones, soil, cement, etc. are found in the roads.
Fig: 31


g. Animal
We tame different types of animals and provide
them different types of foods. The wastes like
animal dung, straw, grasses, wheat stalk, plant
parts, branches of trees, leaves, etc. are the solid
wastes produced in animal sheds.

Fig: 32
h. Agricultural lands
People cultivate different types of crops, vegetables and fruits on agricultural land. People
use random and excessive amount of chemical fertilizers on land. There is generation
of different wastes like plant parts (leaves, stem), straw, wheat stalk, branches of trees,
chemical fertilizers, cow dung, etc. in the agricultural land.

Activity: 5

List out the wastes produced in your home. Compare your list with your friends in the
class. Discuss about the ways to manage them in the group and present in your class.


Steps of solid waste management

Solid wastes are produced from different sources. Majority of the solid wastes are randomly
thrown here and there in the surrounding. There should not be random disposal of solid
wastes in our surroundings. Actually, it is better to reduce the use of resources so that the
production of solid wastes becomes less. If the use of resources cannot be minimized, at
least the solid waste produced should be properly managed so that the effects caused by
dumping of solid wastes can be minimized.

There are different steps to manage the solid wastes. They are described as follows:

a. Reduction of wastes
We need to reduce the production of wastes. When the wastes are produced less, they
are thrown less randomly in the environment. It helps to make our surrounding clean,
minimizes pollution of air, water, land, protects us from different diseases. Likewise, the
cost for management of wastes can be reduced. Hence, it is very important that people
develop some good habits for reducing production of solid wastes. People need to carry
jute bags or cloth bags while visiting market so that they can avoid plastic bags to keep

GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 177

goods and items. People need to be encouraged for the practice of 3R method (Reduce,
Reuse and Recycle) for reduction and management of wastes. People need to reduce use of
renewable and non-renewable natural resources as far as possible. When those resources
are utilized less, there will be less production of solid wastes. Actually, we need to give
priority for use of perpetual natural resources. When we reduce the use of resources, solid
wastes will be produced less and they can be managed properly.
Reduction of wastes can be done in some other ways which are described below:


i. Classification
Initially, the wastes like paper, plastics, rubber, glasses, metals, broken utensils, damaged
earthen items, food stuff, vegetable parts, animal parts, etc. should be classified into
biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes. Classification of wastes actually supports
in effective management of wastes.


ii. Reuse
Using the same substance time and again is regarded
as reuse of resources. We need to make habit of reusing
the same substance time and again as far as possible.
Generally, paper, plastics, bottles (medicine, cold drinks,
beer cans), etc. should be reused. The plastic bottles, glass
bottles, beer cans, juice cans, etc. should be collected,
cleaned disinfected and reused. Reuse of the substances
makes less production of solid wastes and helps in
reduction of over utilization of various resources.
Fig: 33
iii. Recycle
The process of converting old substances into new ones is called recycling. The solid
wastes can be reduced by recycling them. Generally, the wastes like paper, plastics,
glasses, metals, rubber, etc. can be recycled. Recycling helps in saving the resources from
over-utilization as well as in reduction of solid wastes.


b. Collection of wastes
As we cannot stop producing solid wastes, at least, they need to be collected properly,
transferred to a particular place and dumped properly. There are some ways for collection
of solid wastes. They are described below:

i. Community method
In this method, different types of containers or dustbins, either
big or small, are placed in different places in the locality. People
are supposed to throw the wastes produced from their homes in
those containers rather than throwing here and there. When the
container is full, municipality office or concerned authority takes
away those wastes in a particular dumping site where they are
properly disposed. Fig: 34
178 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

ii. Block method
In this method, a vehicle from municipality office
visits the locality early in the morning by blowing
whistle or ringing bell or with a siren. When the
vehicle approaches in the locality, people discharge
their wastes in those vehicles. Later on, vehicles
take away wastes to the concerned dumping sites
where they are properly dumped.
Fig: 35
iii. Door to door method
In this method, an individual visits a locality with
a tricycle or a tractor. He/she asks for wastes in
every doors in the locality. People discharge the
wastes in tricycle or tractor. Later on, that person
takes away wastes to concerned dumping site or
to a vehicle of concerned municipality office.

c. Compost preparation Fig: 36
We can manage the solid wastes by converting them into compost. The biodegradable
wastes are converted into compost in order to manage them. There are various ways of
compost preparation. Some of them are described below:


i. Aerobic method
The method of preparation of compost by bacteria
in presence of air is called aerobic method.
In this method, either a small pit (6 feet long, 3 feet
wide and 3 feet deep) or big pit (16 feet long, 3 feet
wide and 3 feet deep) is made based on the amount
of wastes produced. The biodegradable wastes
are thrown in the pit. When the pit is about full or
in every one week interval, the wastes are turned Fig: 37
upside down by means of shovel, stick or even by
hand wearing gloves. In this method, pit is not covered. So, the preparation of compost
is fast. However, this method is very stinky. It takes about one month to prepare compost
by this method.

ii. Anaerobic method
The method of preparation of compost by bacteria in the absence of air is called anaerobic
method.
In this method, either a small or big pit is made based on the amount of wastes produced.
Initially, biodegradable wastes are kept upto 9 inches at the bottom of pit. On top of them,
2 inches of cow dung and sludge is kept. The same process of keeping 9 inch wastes and 2
inch cow dung and sludge is repeated till the pit is full. The process of piling up of wastes

GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 179

as well as cow dung and sludge into layers helps to increase temperature in the pit. Once
the pit is full, it is covered by mud and black polythene. It takes (4-6) months time to
prepare compost by this method.

Differences between Aerobic method and Anaerobic method

Aerobic method Anaerobic method
1. The method of preparation of compost 1. The method of preparation of compost
by bacteria in presence of air is called by bacteria in an absence of air is called
aerobic method. anaerobic method.
2. The wastes are simply dumped in a pit 2. The wastes are piled up in layers in a
in this method. pit in this method.
3. There is no use of cow dung and 3. Cow dung and sludge are mixed with
sludge. wastes.
4. The wastes are turned upside down. 4. The wastes are not turned upside
down.
5. The pit is opened. 5. The pit is covered.
6. It takes about 1 month to prepare 6. It takes about (4-6) months to prepare
compost. compost.


iii. Mechanical method
In this method, bigger biodegradable wastes like bones, rotten fruits, vegetables parts,
skin, etc. are broken down into small pieces not more than 2 inches in size by means of
machines. They are mixed with cow dung and sludge and left over. Since the wastes are
made open, there is spreading of bad smell. Then gradually the compost is made. It takes
about (4-6) weeks time period to prepare compost by this method.

iv. Vermi-compost method
The process of converting compost by earth
worms is called vermi-compost method. In this
method, a bamboo basket with a lid, straw, mud
and vermies or earthworms are needed. Initially,
a layer of straw is kept at the bottom of basket
as bedding for earthworms. Then, a layer of cow
dung and mud is placed on the bedding. After that,
500-1000 earthworms are kept on bedding. The
biodegradable wastes are crushed into small pieces Fig: 38
and kept inside the basket as food for earthworms.
The lid of basket is always closed as earthworms are photo-sensitive. The earthworms
consume the wastes and excrete compost. It takes about two months to prepare compost
by this method.






180 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

7.5 Drainage and Excreta Disposal

Drainage
Drainage is a system of carrying away waste water
or other liquid waste through a pipe or channel.
The water which is produced after use in several
activities like washing, cleaning, bathing, flushing
the toilet, watering the garden, etc. is called waste
water.

Waste water is produced from different sources like Fig: 39
settlement areas, industries, hotels, restaurants,
laundries, laboratories, hospitals, etc. This waste water can cause several problems in the
surrounding as well as for the human beings. Hence, it should be properly drained in
drainage and drainage should be managed properly.

Effects of waste water
Waste water is very harmful for human health and the environment. It causes several
health problems to people. Some of the effects of waste water are given below:
a. When waste water is discharged in water resources, water ecosystem is adversely
affected.
b. Waste water contains harmful germs. Hence, various types of diseases spread.
c. It increases bad smelling and make the surrounding unsuitable to live.

d. Random discharge of waste water leads towards land pollution.
e. It decreases soil fertility.
f. Waste water used for irrigation affects the crops.


Management of Waste Water and Drainage
The waste water should be managed for keeping the environment clean. There are some
ways for the proper management of drainage and waste water. They are as follows:

a. The drainage and drinking water pipes are kept together in many places. They must
be separated.
b. Waste water discharged from industries, factories and distilleries should be treated
before discharging it into water resources.
c. In urban areas, concrete drains and pits should be made to manage waste water.

d. Proper care and maintenance of drainage should be done regularly.
e. Proper drainage should be made in agricultural land to manage proper outflow of
water.

f. Government should provide technical support to the hospitals and industries to
process waste water.
GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 181

Management of excreta disposal
Human body excretes various wastes. Among them, stool and urine are the major
ones. They are called excreta. Stools contain various types of harmful micro-organisms,
protozoa, helminths and their eggs as well as larvae and other parasites.
It is most essential to defeacate or urinate whenever we like but we should not defeacate
and urinate wherever we like. People randomly defeacate and urinate in the surroundings.
Open field defeacation and random urination leads towards littering of the surrounding,
spread bad smell and pollute the air. Likewise, there is high chance of spreading of several
diseases like diarrhoea, dysentery, cholera, typhoid, jaundice, hepatitis, etc. Besides this,
it makes the surrounding unhealthy for living. Hence, it is most essential to defeacate
and urinate only in the latrines. People should be encouraged to make toilet or latrines
in their home and they must defeacate or urinate only in the latrine. Similarly, we should
construct toilets in public places.


Types of latrines
Depending on size, structure, durability and use of construction materials, latrines can be
divided into various types. They are discussed below:

a. Simple pit latrine
Simple pit latrine is the simplest form of latrine in
which a pit is made according to the size and need
of the family. This latrine is generally made in the
rural areas where there is lack of water and other
construction materials like rod, cement, concrete,
etc. It can be covered by bamboo sticks or sacks for
privacy. Even, there can be use of door as well.

It works for a year for a family with 5-6 members.
When the pit is about full, then it should be covered Fig: 40
by mud and another pit should be made in another place.


Condition for site selection of simple pit latrine
While constructing simple pit latrine, following points should be considered.
a. It should be made 30 feet away from home.
b. It should be constructed in the hard soil away from the water resources and tube well.

c. It should be constructed below water resources so as to reduce water pollution.
d. The door and ventilation of this latrine should not face towards home as it spreads
bad smelling.


Advantages of simple pit latrine
a. It can be constructed in such places where there is lack of water and other construction
materials like rod, cement, concrete, etc.
182 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

b. This latrine can be constructed with low cost and within short period of time.
c. Even semi-skilled manpower can construct it with the locally available materials like
bricks, stone, slates, etc.
d. Ventilator can be kept in this latrine.
e. A wooden slab can be used to cover the opening of the pit so that surrounding remains
clean.
f. This latrine keeps the flies and insects away.


Disadvantages of simple latrine
a. This latrine is not durable one.
b. The leakage of waste water from this latrine may pollute water.

c. If the latrine is not covered, it attracts flies and other insects.
d. This latrine pollutes the land and spreads bad smelling.

Improved pit latrine
It is the modification of simple pit latrine. In this
latrine, two pits are made but only one is used
in the beginning until it is filled up. This latrine
is made up of concrete, cement, rods, etc. There
is provision of two way pipe for both pits so that
the other one can be closed while the next one is
in use. A concrete slab is placed on the top of the
pit and the latrine is enclosed with door and other
structure for privacy. Fig: 41
It is more durable than simple pit latrine as it has two pits. It lasts for 5-6 years for a family
with (5-6) members. When the pits are about full, they should be covered by mud and
another latrine should be made in the another place.

In improved pit latrine, the site selection is done by following the conditions similar to
those of simple pit latrine.


Advantages of improved pit latrine
a. It can be constructed even by semi-skilled manpower.

b. This latrine can be constructed even in the terai region where there is availability of
more under ground water.
c. It is durable as it is made up of cement, concrete, rods, etc.

d. It does not support the growth of insects.
e. The excreta deposited in this latrine can be converted into compost which can be
utilized in the agricultural land as fertilizers.

GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 183

Disadvantages of improved pit latrine
a. The leakage of waste water from this latrine can cause land and water pollution.
b. It spreads bad smelling.

c. If the opening of the pit is not covered, it attracts insects.

Modern concrete latrine
Modern concrete latrine is the modern type of
latrine. It is generally made in the urban areas. It
contains U-tube in which some portion of water
remains after flushing. The presence of water acts
as a water seal and prevents bad smell as well as
distracts insects. This latrine can be made inside
or outside the house. But, it can’t be made in such
places where there is lack of water.
Fig: 42

Advantages of modern concrete latrine
a. It is made of bricks, cement, concrete, rods, marble, tiles and metallic substances due
to which it becomes durable for many years.
b. It can be made inside the house so that it can be used by people at night as well.
c. Water is used in this latrine which makes it clean and protects from insects.


Disadvantages of modern concrete latrine
a. It can be made only by skilled manpower.
b. The construction materials for this latrine are expensive.

c. It cannot be constructed in the places where there is lack of water.
d. If water is not properly utilized, it can spread bad smell and attracts insects.

d. Trench latrine
Trench latrine is a temporary latrine generally
made during camps and fair. In this latrine, a
long pit is made which is separated into different
segments and are separated by plastics, tin, wood,
sack or any other locally available materials. A long
pit is made so that many people can urinate or
defeacate at once. It is covered with mud once the
fair or camp is completed. But, another pit is made
in another place if pit is full before the camp or fair Fig: 43
is completed.





184 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

Activity: 6

Visit your locality and observe the drainage of excreta. Observe whether it is treated or
not? Express your views for the management of excreta in your locality.

Activity: 7

Visit your locality and observe how the solid wastes are managed there. Prepare a report
and present in the class.

Activity: 8

Visit your locality and study the situation of latrines. On the basis of your study, answer
the following questions.
What kind of latrine do you What kinds of latrines are What are the bad effects of
have in your home? available in your locality? latrines in the environment?




























Summary

1. The literal meaning of environment is the whole area covered with air.

2. Pollution can be defined as undesirable change in physical, chemical and biological
characteristics of air, water and land due to addition of unwanted substances in
them that adversely affects the health and the survival of all the living beings.
3. Pollutants are those substances which cause pollution.
4. Air pollution can be defined as undesirable change in physical, chemical and
biological characteristics of air due to addition of unwanted substances in it.



GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 185

5. According to WHO, “Air pollution is limited to situation in which the outer ambient
atmosphere contains materials in concentrations, which are harmful to human
beings and their environment.”
6. Water pollution is undesirable change in the physical, chemical and biological
characteristics of water due to addition of unwanted substances that adversely
affect the survival of living beings in water.
7. The undesirable change in physical, chemical and biological characteristics of land
due to addition of unwanted substances that adversely affect the survival of living
beings on land is called land pollution.

8. The unwanted sound produced in large intensity that adversely affects the physical
and mental condition of people is called sound pollution.

9. Management of solid wastes means adoption of various activities that include
collection, transfer, treatment, burial, burning and disposal in a systematic way.
10. The materials that are left after consumption and utilization and are in the solid
form are called as solid wastes. For example, plastics, waste, paper, metals, glasses,
rubber, food stuff, fruit skin, animal parts, vegetables parts, etc.
11. Those solid wastes which can be converted into compost or manure are called as
biodegradable wastes.
12. Those solid wastes which cannot be converted into compost or manure are called as
non-biodegradable wastes.

13. Those solid wastes which can neither be converted into compost nor be reused or
recycled are called landfill wastes/disposable wastes.

14. The wastes like waste paper, plastics, rubber, glasses, metals, broken utensils,
damaged earthen items, food stuff, vegetable parts, animal parts, etc. should be
classified into biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes.
15. Using the same substance time and again is regarded as reuse of resources.
16. The process of converting old substances into new ones is called recycling.

17. The method of preparation of compost by bacteria in presence of air is called aerobic
method.
18. The method of preparation of compost by bacteria in the absence of air is called
anaerobic method.
19. The process of converting compost by earthworms is called vermi compost method.

20. Drainage is a system of carrying away waste water or other liquid wastes through
a pipe or channel.
21. Simple pit latrine is the simplest form of latrine in which a pit is made according to
the size and need of the family.





186 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

Exercise

A. Write very short answer to the following questions.
1. What does ‘environ’ mean?
2. Mention any two measures to maintain environment health in school and family.
3. What are pollutants?
4. Give two examples each of solid, liquid and gaseous pollutants.
5. What is global warming?
6. What is ozone layer depletion?
7. Which is the major cause of flood and landslide?
8. What pollution is caused by industrialization?
9. Which pollution leads towards respiratory problems?
10. Write two diseases caused by water pollution.
11. How are farmers responsible for land pollution?
12. What is noise?
13. How much decibel of sound is suitable during day and night time for good
health?
14. How much decibel sound is tolerable to human ear?
15. Why are certain places regarded as horn free zones?
16. How much percentage of wastes produced are biodegradable and non-
biodegradable?
17. What are landfill wastes?
18. Which process is used to make new substance from broken glasses and metals?
19. In which method earthworms are used for preparing compost?
20. What is drainage?
21. How far should simple pit latrine be made from home?
22. Which latrine is constructed in fairs and camps?
23. Which type of latrine can be constructed inside or outside home?

B. Write short answer to the following questions.
1. What is environment health? Why do we need it?
2. What are the natural sources of pollution?
3. What is pollution? What are the causes of air pollution?
4. What is water pollution? Write the effects of water pollution?
5. What is land pollution? How can we control land pollution?
6. What is sound pollution? What are the causes of sound pollution?
7. How does human ignorance increase pollution?
8. What are solid wastes? Explain briefly about their types.
9. Explain briefly about 3R method.


GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 187

10. “Solid wastes are increased due to bad activities of human beings.” Do you
agree? Give reasons.
11. Differentiate between:
a. Reduce and recycle
b. Aerobic and anaerobic method
c. Simple pit latrine and improved pit latrine
d. Improved pit latrine and modern concrete latrine
e. Biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes
12. What is drainage? How can we manage drainage?
13. What is latrine? Why should people defecate and urinate only in latrines?

C. Write long answer to the following questions.
1. What are the human sources of pollution? Explain briefly.
2. What is air pollution? Explain briefly about its causes and effects.
3. What is water pollution? Explain briefly about its effects and control measures.
4. What is sound pollution? Explain briefly its effects and control measures.
5. What are the solid wastes? Explain briefly about their sources.
6. How are human beings responsible for various types of pollution in environment?
7. What are steps of solid wastes management? Explain briefly on collection of
wastes.
8. What is compost preparation? Explain briefly about its types.
9. What is simple pit latrine? Write its advantages and disadvantages.
10. Describe briefly about improved pit latrine.
11. Why is clean and healthy environment needed for healthy life? Explain
12. “Environment pollution is the internal change in available air, water, soil and
sound.” Justify this statement.


























188 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

UNIT Adolescence, Sexual and
8 Reproductive Health










Estimated Teaching Periods: 17

Learning Objectives
Learning Outcomes
After completing the study of this unit, students will be able to:
i. introduce adolescence and explain its characteristics.
ii. describe the changes during adolescence.
iii. explain needs, demands and problems of adolescence.
iv. describe the ways of management of problems of adolescence.
v. introduce sex education and describe its importance.
vi. define reproductive health and explain its aspects.
vii. explain reproductive system and reproductive right.

Course Outline

8.1 Introduction to Adolescence
8.2 Sex Education and Its Importance
8.3 Reproductive Health
8.4 Reproductive System
8.5 Menstruation
8.6 Reproductive Right


Glossary

adolescence : the period of life when a child develops into an adult
infancy : early childhood, the first part of a child’s life
dilapidated : in very bad condition because of age or lack of care
dilemma : a situation in which you have to make a difficult choice
hoarse : having a harsh or tough sound or voice
hormone : a chemical messenger secreted by endocrine glands that influences the
way the body grows or develops
conception : the process of becoming pregnant involving fertilization or implantation
or both
consensus : a general agreement about something
surrogacy : the practice by which a woman becomes pregnant and gives birth to a
baby in order to give it to someone who cannot have children
GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 189

8.1 Introduction to Adolescence

No one is immortal in the world. Everyone of us
whoever has taken birth, has to die sooner or later.
Human beings have to pass different stages in life
from birth till death. For a year, after birth, there
remains infancy. Childhood remains till 10–12 years.
After then, there starts adolescence till 19 years. After
20 years, there starts adult stage and adulthood. Old
age starts after 60 years and ultimately people die.
Each of these stages of life has their own importance
and characteristics. Among them, adolescence is Fig: 1
very important stage in our life. It is the pathway for
adulthood. It can show positive aspect of life in future or divert to bad and wrong aspect
of life.
Adolescence is derived from the Latin word ‘adolescere’ which means to grow or to grow
to maturity. According to WHO, adolescence is the period ranging from (10–19) years as a
transition period from childhood to adulthood. It is also said as a span of years in which
both boys and girls move from childhood to adulthood physically, mentally, emotionally
and socially. According to group of psychologists, it is the period between which both
boys and girls are capable of bearing the children. But, there are variations in the onset and
span of adolescence. The onset of adolescence varies from culture to culture depending
on nutrition, race, sex, climatic condition, socio–economic condition, etc. It is divided into
various stages. The stages and span of adolescence are shown in the following table.
Table: Stages of Adolescence
Stages In boys In girls
Pre – adolescence (Puberty) (10 – 14) years (8 – 12) years
Middle adolescence (14 – 17) years (12 – 16) years
Late adolescence 17 years 16 years

Adolescence is very important period in one’s life. It is characterized by transitional period,
a period of change, age of problems, period of mental discomfort, search for identities and
quick response towards the attitudes and behaviours. Moreover, they begin to concentrate
on such works which are supposed to be the activities of adult like smoking, drinking
alcohol, taking drugs, getting involved into sexual activities and relationships.
Adolescence is even called as the period of stress and storm. During the storm, there is
immediate and rapid blowing of wind. The fast movement of wind blows away roofs,
destroys windows, doors, topples down vehicles, uproots the trees, falls down poles,
deposits wastes, etc. Within short period of time, things get dilapidated in the surroundings
and the environment is totally changed. But after some period of destruction, environment
remains quiet and calm. In the same way, adolescents have also quick responses for many
things. They get angry very fast and without thinking much, they get into action. That
might cause the result into their opposition. When the result is against them, they get
frustrated soon. However, they realize their mistakes and remain quiet and calm even
190 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

regret for their works. Similarly, they have several problems in their life. They have
problems of age, problem from studies, friends, parents, neighbours and even from the
society. Hence, they have always stress of doing better, achieving best though they put on
less efforts for whatever they do or aspire. In several cases and conditions, they become
so much frustrated that they cannot overcome the stress and get involved into crime,
violence and finish their life by committing suicide. So, the activities and behaviours of
adolescents are compared with storm.


Characteristics of adolescence


a. Adolescence is the state of change
Adolescence is the period of change. Adolescents have physical, mental, emotional and
social changes. They have physical growth and change in attitudes. They understand
about social norms and values, realize their roles, responsibilities and duties for the family,
society and the nation. They develop the feeling of self-respect and self-dependency as
well as show interest on various socio–cultural activities that take place in our day to day
life.

b. Adolescence is a state of dilemma
Adolescence is the transition period between childhood and adulthood. They do not like
others behave them as children and they are not mature enough like the adults. Hence
they have problems in taking right and responsible decisions. They remain in dilemma
for the selection of right things and take responsible decisions.

c. Adolescence is an important stage
Adolescence is the pathway for adulthood. Physical and psychological aspects develop
rapidly along with the sexuality in this period. Adolescents can develop positive attitudes
and go in right path when guided properly. But, they might go in wrong track when they
are not guided properly during the adolescence.

d. Adolescences is the stage of searching identity
During adolescence, adolescents have high ambitions and
high mental state. Even they develop creativity. They want
to draw attention of others towards them. They do various
things in a unique way and want to show themselves as
different from others. Fig: 2

e. Adolescences is the threshold of adulthood
Adolescents want to show themselves as adults. They think
themselves as adults. So, they want to do various activities
of adults like smoking, drinking alcohol, taking drugs,
gambling, getting involved into sexual activities and sexual
relationship.
Fig: 3
GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 191

f. Adolescence is the state of day dream
Adolescents become imaginative during adolescence.
They think themselves as superior and want their
works appreciated by others. They imagine themselves
as socially prestigious people like doctors, engineers,
lawyers, scientists, professors, etc. They get self-
satisfaction imagining themselves as renowned people
in the society.
Fig: 4
g. Adolescence is the stage of scaring and unhappy
During adolescence, adolescents are very excited and ambitious. They dream of becoming
successful without much efforts. Sometimes, they even imagine something that is
impossible. When they fail, they become unhappy, frustrated and upset.


h. Adolescence is a troublesome stage
Adolescence is age of problems. Adolescents think
they have many problems from family, friends, society
and parents. Very often they get involved into various
activities against social norms values and beliefs. As a
result, the friends, parents, family members and members
of society scold them. Hence, it is a troublesome stage.
Fig: 5
Changes during adolescence

During adolescence, several physical, mental, emotional and social changes take place.
Adolescents have remarkable growth in external and internal organs. They have increase of
mental strength, growth of nerve cells, development of reasoning, logical power, creativity.
Anger, hatred, love, jealousy, selfishness etc emotions are increased and involvement in
social activities are increased. The changes during adolescence are described below.

A. Physical change
A remarkable physical change takes place during adolescence. There are external and
internal physical changes in this period. Increase in height, gain in body weight and
development of body organs are some external physical changes. Similarly, development
of circulatory, digestive, endocrine and respiratory systems and growth of tissues are
some internal physical change that take place during adolescence. The external and
internal physical changes are elaborated below.

a. Change in height
Both boys and girls have marked increase in height. Generally,
girls gain height till(17 – 18) years but boys attain height till
(19 – 20) years. It has been seen that they gain height till (1 – 2)
more years if they have better nutrition and complete dose of
prescribed immunization during childhood.
Fig: 6
192 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

b. Change in weight
There is increase in size and length of bones as well as deposition of fats in different parts
of body in both boys and girls. Hence, both of them gain remarkable weight in the body.

c. Change in voice
In adolescence, the voice of boys become hoarse and rough whereas girl’s voice become
soft and sweet.


d. Change in bodily proportion
Different body organs grow and attain full size by the
end of adolescence. There is broadening of chest, increase
of body strength, development of thigh, extension of
stomach and its perimeter, development of food pipe,
liver, wind pipe, heart, etc.
Fig: 7
e. Development of secondary sexual characteristics
Those characteristics which are developed with the
development of reproductive system, its organs and their
functions are called secondary sexual characteristics.
During adolescence, there is development of secondary
sexual characteristics in both boys and girls. In boys, there
is appearance of beard, mustache, hairs in armpit, public
region, limbs, etc. whereas in females, there is appearance
of hairs in armpit, public region, enlargement of breasts, Fig: 8
starting of menstruation cycle, etc.

f. Growth of sex organs
Different sex organs in boys and girls grow and they attain full size by the end of
adolescence.

g. Physiological development
In adolescence, glandular system becomes active and there is secretion of different
hormones as well as enzymes which affect in the functioning of body. Similarly, other
systems like circulatory system, digestive system, respiratory system, etc. also develop
and they start to function well.

B. Mental changes
There is development of nervous system and intellectual activity during adolescence. As
a result, various mental changes take place. Some of the major mental changes during
adolescence are described as follows:

a. Ability to generalize facts
During childhood, children can generalize the facts or things in a concrete way but the
adolescents can generalize facts or things in an abstract way.

GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 193

b. Increase in understanding power
During adolescence, adolescents have increased ability to understand various things.
They understand about complex problems, complex academic as well as non–academic
problems.

c. Increase in memory power
Adolescents have increase in memory power due to development of nervous system and
nerves. At this stage, they can memorize several pages and if necessary, the entire book
or notebook as well.


d. Increase in creativity and imagination
During adolescence, adolescents become creative
and get involved into various creative activities like
painting, making diagrams or pictures, games music, etc.
Moreover, they can imagine about various things that are
not physically present on the earth. Similarly, they have
increase of reasoning and logical power as well.

Fig: 9
C. Emotional changes
Adolescents develop various emotions like anger, hatred,
happiness, sorrows, jealousy, selfishness, infatuation, ego
etc. There are some other emotional changes during this
period. Some of them are as follows:

a. Bearing of tensions
In this stage, adolescents can bear tensions and try to solve
many of the problems by themselves. Fig: 10

b. Bearing of loneliness
In this stage, adolescents can bear loneliness. They can sleep alone and do various activities
alone.

c. Emotional feelings are widened
In adolescence, adolescents have widening of different emotions like love, anger, hatred,
happiness, sorrows, selfishness, jealousy, infatuation, etc.

d. Realism in emotional experience
During adolescence, adolescents enter the period of
reality. They understand their relationship with friends,
family members, neighbours, relatives, etc. Moreover,
they start appreciating the ones whom they like or whom
they are influenced with.
Fig: 11


194 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

e. Loyalties expand
In adolescence, adolescents become loyal for their parents, teachers, towards their studies,
society and entire nation as well.
D. Social changes

Adolescents have physical, mental and emotional changes.
Based on those changes as well as family structure, socio-
economic aspects and influence of friends, the remarkable
social changes are seen during adolescence. Some of them
are as follows:
a. Adolescents like to remain outside home in friends
circle. They are devoted towards friends and group Fig: 12
activities.

b. They have great influence of friend’s attitudes, behaviours and perceptions. They
do what the friends do. So, there is high chance that they get involved in smoking,
drinking alcohol, taking drugs, gambling, fighting etc.
c. They like to make friends whom they match in social status, economic status, class,
interests etc.
d. They like to participate in the programs, festivals, concerts, functions and ceremonies
where there is gathering of opposite sex.
e. They start to participate in various extra-curricular activities like sports, quiz contest,
poetry, debate competition, etc. They easily appreciate the qualities in which they
have interest.
f. They like to participate in several social works and like to become members of various
social originations like Scout, Lions club, Red Cross Society, etc.
g. A strong desire of independence develops in this period. Hence, there is more chance
of clashes with family members, teachers, friends, etc.

Needs and demands of adolescence
During adolescence, adolescents have physical, mental, emotional and social changes.
But, they cannot cope with those changes much. They have marked physical growth but
mentally they are not much confident to take the decision. They are grown ups but they
are not fully mature enough to deal with various roles and duties. Very often they are
overlooked by the seniors though they show some independent behaviours. They want
freedom and do various works of their interest. But parents always want to see them study
and have book in hand. Adolescents want to remain in friends circle and enjoy a lot. But
parents blame them for being irresponsible, insincere and say them that they have wasted
time. In many cases, parents enforce the adolescents to follow their interests rather than
giving them liberty of choosing or adopting their own interest, stating that adolescents
are still young to decide of their own. Due to these activities, adolescents can never enjoy
the activities and consider their studies, duties as burden. They consider that their parents
never understand them. Hence, very often there is clash between parents and adolescents.

GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 195

Even they get frustrated and get involved into smoking, drinking alcohol, taking drugs,
unsafe social activities, anti-social activities, vandalism, etc. It is so essential that parents
and teachers understand their needs, demands and interest as well as provide them
necessary counseling, constructive suggestions and guidance so that they can develop
positive attitudes and utilize their energy for their betterment in life.
The needs and demands of adolescents are listed below:
a. They want their parents and teachers understand their problems and needs; and
solve them.
b. They want seniors to support them for personal development without over looking
them.
c. They want their parents to appreciate their ideas and provide them time.
d. Adolescents want their recognition. They want their parents to realize their need,
interests and demands.
e. They want their parents to involve them in decision making in the family.
f. They want their parents and teachers to provide them time for rectifying mistakes.
g. Adolescents want their seniors to provide constructive counseling and guidance
rather than imposing their own thoughts.
h. Adolescents do not want any discrimination from parents and teachers.
i. They expect that their parents do not disturb them and make them stay alone.
j. They want responsible role for the overall development of family, school, society and
entire nation.
k. They need balanced diet to grow. So, they should be provided with various types of
food containing required nutrients.
l. They need physical exercises. Therefore, they should be provided opportunities to
participate in sports, games and other recreational activities.

Problems in adolescence

Adolescence is the period of stress and storm. Due to various changes during adolescence,
adolescents get several problems and remain under stress. As a result, they may not be
able to achieve proper development. Some of the major problems during adolescence are
described below:

a. Mental tension
Mental tension is the feeling of burden that brings anxiety or stress in mind. Generally,
mental tension occurs due to frustration and anxiety. There are various conditions in
which they get mental tension. Some of them are as follows:


i. High ambition
In adolescence, adolescents have high ambition. They have high mental state and
think themselves as superior. They set a goal and fulfill their aspirations beyond their
capabilities. When the desires and aims are not fulfilled, they get frustrated and remain

196 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

under stress. For example, a student weak in study may desire to get A in all the subjects
+
but when he/she cannot get success, he/she can have mental stress.

ii. Lack of commitment
Everyone needs high commitment for doing better in any works like studies, job, business,
etc. Adolescents have desire of getting success with less effort or no effort at all. When the
adolescents do not get success due to lack of commitment, they get frustrated and get
tensed or remain under stress.

iii. Conflict in family
The family environment also causes mental tension in adolescents. When there is quarrels
among the parents and family members, they cannot concentrate in their studies and
work properly. The desires and wants of the adolescents get shattered. As a result, they
get anxiety and mental tensions. Very often, the divorce among the parents also creates
mental tension in the adolescents.


iv. Duality of motives
Sometimes, people may have to choose only one thing from many important things. In such
condition, people have mental tension for the right decision. For example, after getting
good marks in SEE exam, an adolescent may have problems in choosing the subjects
in higher level. He/she may desire to study one subject whereas his/her parents may
want them to study other subject. They might have one interest but yet they might think
parents are their well wishers and they take better decisions for them. In this situation, he/
she may have difficulty in taking right decision and remain under stress.

v. Altered physical condition and mental status
Adolescents remain in stress due to change in physical condition. Boys have tensions due
to change in voice, appearance of pimples, regarding the size of penis, etc. Similarly, girls
remain tensed regarding the starting of menstruation cycle, size of breasts, etc. Even, they
remain under stress due to negative responses from the parents, teachers and friends.


Ways to solve mental tension
There are several ways to reduce mental tensions. Some of them are as follows:
a. Adolescents should share their problems with parents, teachers and friends.
b. They should not remain alone so that they cannot have frustration and depression.
c. They should set their goals within their capabilities so that it can be achieved.
d. They must get involved into recreational activities like playing games, dancing,
singing, etc.
e. They must be given responsibilities so that they gain confidence.
f. They should be given extra chances to take part in curricular activities.
g. They should be given balanced diet and have proper sleep.



GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 197

b. Unsafe sexual behaviour
In adolescence, there is rapid development of sex organs due to secretion of hormones.
Even there is the increase in desire of sexual activities due to secretion of sex hormones.
There is increase of infatuation. They start to remain in love affair. In many conditions,
they may get involved into unsafe sexual intercourse. This activity may lead towards early
pregnancy, increase of conflict, quarrels, transmission of STIs like syphilis, gonorrhoea,
HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C, etc. Actually, the premarital sexual relationship is
socially unaccepted.

c. Nocturnal emission
Nocturnal emission means night fall or wet dream. It is the ejaculation of semen during
sleep. During adolescence, adolescents have rapid development of sex organs and strong
desire of getting involved into sexual activities as well as sexual relationship. They
imagine about various sexual activities which they sometimes dream during sleep. In
the dreams, there is ejaculation of sperms in males and vaginal fluids in females. These
emissions provide sexual satisfaction to both males and females. But, adolescents may
think the emission in negative way and worry whether they have some physical problem
in their body. This creates a lot of stress in them.

d. Sexual abuse/Sexual violence

Due to development of sex organs and hormonal
secretions, adolescents have intense desire of
sexual activities and they tend to fulfill those
desires either physically or verbally. Sometimes,
boys speak vulgar words in front of girls. They
want to touch the body parts, sensitive organs
in crowd or in the vehicles. Even there is sexual
harassment and rape as well. Generally, sexual
abuses are done in home, college, school, roads, Fig: 12
market, fairs, concerts, functions, work place, etc. The sexual abuses cause frustration,
anxiety, depression, distraction from study and work and sometimes committing suicides
as well. Hence, the adolescent girls should be very much careful about sexual abuses.

e. Peer pressure
During adolescence, adolescents like to remain out
of home as a matter of social change. They like to
remain in friends’ circle. There is great influence of
friends’ attitudes, behaviours, interest and speech on
them. While remaining in a group, when someone
starts any thing others copy it or they are forced
to do so. Hence, there is high chance that they get
involved into various bad activities like gambling, Fig: 13
smoking, drinking alcohol, taking drugs, prostitution, involving in social crime, sexual
violence, etc. In many cases, they know whatever they are doing is wrong. But they cannot
avoid those activities. These all activities create a lot of mental stress in them.

198 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9

f. Imitation
Adolescents want recognition from different
people. They try to present their every aspect in
different manner. They want to draw attention
from other people. For this, they change their
dress-up, hair style, speaking and walking style,
eating habits, etc. During adolescence, they are
highly impressed by some famous personalities
like sports person, players, singers, musicians,
actors, actresses, etc. They try to imitate several Fig: 14
activities and behaviours of those personalities.
As a result, they get involved into various bad activities like smoking, drinking alcohol,
taking drugs and so on. Sometimes, imitation leads towards accidents and other health
problems as well.

g. Early marriage
Early marriage is very common in our context. Most of the parents want to get their
children married as soon as possible. So, the adolescent girls become pregnant in the
young age and they are deprived of several social, economic and educational activities.
Moreover, early marriage causes several health complication for mother as well as
child. Due to young age, the pregnancy becomes complicated. There is high chance of
miscarriage, abnormal growth of foetus, increase of blood pressure and sugar level,
excessive bleeding, etc. Moreover, they are not mature enough to nurture the children
properly and bear the family responsibilities well. These all create a lot of mental stress
among adolescent.


Management of problems of adolescence
It is normal and natural that adolescents have physical, mental, emotional and social
changes during adolescence. Adolescents may have several problems related to all those
changes. Hence, it is very important to address the problems of adolescents for their
overall development and bright future. We can adopt the following measures for the
management of problems of adolescents.

a. Counselling and guidance
Adolescence is the age of problems. The adolescents
have several problems as matter of various
changes. They have problems of friends, study,
love affairs, infatuation, physiological changes
and so on. They are not capable enough to solve
all those problems by themselves neither they can
express their problems with seniors or others. As a
result, they have lot more stress and tension. There
is change in their behaviours, distraction from Fig: 15
studies, weak academic performance, increase of anger and some other psychological
changes. Very often they tend to adopt unhealthy measures and impractical actions to
GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9 199

solve their problems which furthermore make them in troubles. Hence, the parents and
teachers should closely observe the changes in them. They must provide constructive
suggestions and necessary guidance as well as counsel them in polite manner to solve
their problems.

b. Participation in creative activities
Adolescents become creative and imaginative as
a matter of mental change during adolescence.
They keep on doing various creative activities as
well. Parents must understand the interest of their
children. They must be given some responsible
tasks at home. They should be given opportunities
to get involved into music, dancing, poetry, games,
painting, carpentry, knitting, sewing, gardening, Fig: 16
learning, etc. Actually, involvement in creative
activities divert their mind from thinking and suffering from tensions and problems.
Above all, involvement in creative activities supports in sharpening their talents, makes
them more responsible and mature enough to deal with various problems in their life.
This ultimately nullify the problems of adolescents.

c. Mutual understanding

Adolescents get angry rapidly and they have quick response on many things. They keep
on complaining that their parents, teachers and other seniors do not understand their
feelings, interests, desires and problems. These types of thinking increase distance and
misunderstanding among parents and adolescents. Even, they get involved into various
anti-social activities as well. These mostly add up problems in them. Hence, parents,
teachers and community people must understand their change of behaviours, feelings
and desires. Parents must provide time to their adolescents, treat them politely, love
them, never underestimate and degrade them. By this, adolescents believe their parents
and teachers and share their problems easily. Hence, the mutual understanding among
parents, teachers, community people and adolescents helps in solving the problems of
adolescents easily.


d. Safe sexual behaviour
As a matter of physical and emotional change, adolescents have development of sex
organs and opposite sex attraction. They have strong desire to get involved into sexual
activities. But, due to lack of proper knowledge and maturity, they might adopt unhealthy
and impractical methods to satisfy their sexual desires. Unsafe sexual behaviours cause
early pregnancy, transmission of various STIs, like HIV/AIDS, Gonorrhoea, Syphilis,
Hepatitis B and C, etc. Hence, they must adopt safe sexual behaviours. They can practice
the following ways for safe sexual behaviour:

i. Masturbation
Masturbation is a way of erecting reproductive organs by using hand for sexual pleasure.
Both boys and girls can practice masturbation for their sexual satisfaction. During
200 GREEN Environment Population and Health Education Book-9